What is the Average Lifespan of Breast Implants?

Women considering having breast augmentation often ask about the longevity of the implants. Do implants need to be replaced after a certain number of years, or can they remain in good condition "for life"? At Centre de Chirurgie Plastique on Île-des-Sœurs, we know that the answer to this very legitimate question is not all black and white. Read this blog to learn more!

Do You Need to Replace Implants Every 10 Years? Not Necessarily!There are a lot of people who say that implants need to be changed every 10 years: this is not correct! Today's implants are much safer, more comfortable and more durable than the early models that appeared in the 1960s. In fact, a woman who has breast augmentation with silicone gel or saline prostheses in 2017 may never need to go under the knife again!

However, the average lifespan of a silicone prosthesis is 15 years, A physiological saline prosthesis has a lifespan of 10 years. It cannot be said enough: these figures vary greatly from one woman to the next, and the lucky ones will be able to keep their implants for several decades.

Under what Circumstances Should Breast Prostheses Be Replaced?You only need to change your implants in the following situations:

If the prosthesis envelope breaks (due to natural wear or trauma)

If there is capsular contracture (formation of a thick membrane around the prosthesis)

If unattractive wrinkles or creases form in the chest area

If there is pronounced ptosis (sagging) of the breasts requiring a breast lift and simultaneously a change of prosthesis

If you want to change breast size (bigger or smaller implants)

In short, if your implants are still in good condition after 10 years and you feel no discomfort and are happy with how your chest looks, you do not need to replace them. There’s no set expiry date! However, it is still important to have your implants checked regularly on a preventive basis by a plastic surgeon, who will be able to detect any abnormality as soon as it appears.